EP2718631A2 - An electric shower - Google Patents
An electric showerInfo
- Publication number
- EP2718631A2 EP2718631A2 EP12731606.5A EP12731606A EP2718631A2 EP 2718631 A2 EP2718631 A2 EP 2718631A2 EP 12731606 A EP12731606 A EP 12731606A EP 2718631 A2 EP2718631 A2 EP 2718631A2
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- shower
- electric shower
- water
- heat exchange
- electric
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 79
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000002351 wastewater Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000002699 waste material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000002537 cosmetic Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000008400 supply water Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 claims 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000011084 recovery Methods 0.000 abstract description 9
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 7
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 6
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000007812 deficiency Effects 0.000 description 4
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 4
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 3
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 description 3
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000001035 drying Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007774 longterm Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012549 training Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000002918 waste heat Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000003287 bathing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005219 brazing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000013065 commercial product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001010 compromised effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 1
- -1 energy used Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000001704 evaporation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008020 evaporation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000737 periodic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009428 plumbing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005086 pumping Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002994 raw material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004064 recycling Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005476 soldering Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010792 warming Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D1/00—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators
- F28D1/02—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid
- F28D1/03—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with plate-like or laminated conduits
- F28D1/0308—Heat-exchange apparatus having stationary conduit assemblies for one heat-exchange medium only, the media being in contact with different sides of the conduit wall, in which the other heat-exchange medium is a large body of fluid, e.g. domestic or motor car radiators with heat-exchange conduits immersed in the body of fluid with plate-like or laminated conduits the conduits being formed by paired plates touching each other
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47K—SANITARY EQUIPMENT NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; TOILET ACCESSORIES
- A47K3/00—Baths; Douches; Appurtenances therefor
- A47K3/28—Showers or bathing douches
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
- E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D17/00—Domestic hot-water supply systems
- F24D17/0036—Domestic hot-water supply systems with combination of different kinds of heating means
- F24D17/0052—Domestic hot-water supply systems with combination of different kinds of heating means recuperated waste heat and conventional heating means
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D19/00—Details
- F24D19/10—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices
- F24D19/1006—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems
- F24D19/1051—Arrangement or mounting of control or safety devices for water heating systems for domestic hot water
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
- F24H15/20—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control inputs
- F24H15/212—Temperature of the water
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
- F24H15/20—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control inputs
- F24H15/281—Input from user
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
- F24H15/30—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control outputs; characterised by the components to be controlled
- F24H15/335—Control of pumps, e.g. on-off control
- F24H15/34—Control of the speed of pumps
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
- F24H15/30—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control outputs; characterised by the components to be controlled
- F24H15/355—Control of heat-generating means in heaters
- F24H15/37—Control of heat-generating means in heaters of electric heaters
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
- F24H15/00—Control of fluid heaters
- F24H15/30—Control of fluid heaters characterised by control outputs; characterised by the components to be controlled
- F24H15/395—Information to users, e.g. alarms
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
- F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
- F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
- F28D21/0001—Recuperative heat exchangers
- F28D21/0012—Recuperative heat exchangers the heat being recuperated from waste water or from condensates
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
- G05D—SYSTEMS FOR CONTROLLING OR REGULATING NON-ELECTRIC VARIABLES
- G05D23/00—Control of temperature
- G05D23/19—Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means
- G05D23/1917—Control of temperature characterised by the use of electric means using digital means
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03C—DOMESTIC PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS FOR FRESH WATER OR WASTE WATER; SINKS
- E03C1/00—Domestic plumbing installations for fresh water or waste water; Sinks
- E03C2001/005—Installations allowing recovery of heat from waste water for warming up fresh water
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D2200/00—Heat sources or energy sources
- F24D2200/08—Electric heater
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
- F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
- F24D2200/00—Heat sources or energy sources
- F24D2200/16—Waste heat
- F24D2200/20—Sewage water
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
- Y02B10/70—Hybrid systems, e.g. uninterruptible or back-up power supplies integrating renewable energies
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B30/00—Energy efficient heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC]
- Y02B30/18—Domestic hot-water supply systems using recuperated or waste heat
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B30/00—Energy efficient heating, ventilation or air conditioning [HVAC]
- Y02B30/56—Heat recovery units
Definitions
- This invention relates to electric showers.
- the heat exchange surface exposed to the gray/used shower water cannot be cleaned without disassembly, using special tools, or mechanism within the heat exchange system.
- the heat exchange components are bulky and have a relatively high thermal mass. Consequently there is an extended warm up period where energy is absorbed before efficient heat transfer is established. This heat is then lost to the environment at the end of the shower period.
- the heat exchange components are complex and use significant raw materials resulting in high installation costs and subsequently a poor economic return.
- the heat recovery system that is employed heats the cold water feed before mixing this with hot water to attain the desired shower temperature. This results in the quantity of cold water to be warmed being significantly lower than the total water flow through the shower from which heat is to be removed. Consequently, the heat recovery is compromised and the efficiency of such systems is low.
- Heat recovery systems when used to return heat from the waste water flow, back to the shower in use do not have a control system capable of delivering a stable shower temperature, given the positive feedback inherent in such arrangements.
- an electric shower which includes a heat exchanger that forms the catch tray at the base of the shower enclosure characterised by the provision of a pressure reducing device, a single pass and a single exposed heat exchange surface.
- Preferred features of the invention include:- a pump designed to work at low suction pressure to control shower pressure and flow. an electrical continuous flow water heater. an electronic control system that coordinates the function of these components and mitigates the positive feedback and therefore inherent instability in the shower water temperature that occurs when heat exchangers are used in this manner.
- a user interface to switch the shower on/off, change temperature etc.
- the total area of the heat exchanger tray is significant as it is directly proportional to the size of the force being generated between the upper and lower plates of the heat exchanger by the pressure of the supply water contained therein. This may be overcome in a comparable application by securing the plates to each other at regular intervals. This is customarily achieved by spot welding the plates together at periodic intervals. This approach tends to leave depressions/marks and some distortion on the surface of the tray reducing the cosmetic appeal and ease of cleaning.
- Soldering, brazing or the use of an adhesive are all possible methods of securing the upper and lower shells of the heat exchanger together but result in greater complexity in manufacture and a less satisfactory result.
- What is proposed in this invention is to have a low pressure heat exchange tray the two halves of which do not need to be secured except at their edges.
- the lower and upper halves or 'shells' of the heat exchanger are 'sprung' in compression together while being secured and sealed together at the outer and inner edges during manufacture. It is necessary to restrict the maximum inlet water pressure with a pressure reducing device so that the internal pressure within the heat exchanger is typically less than 1bar.
- the internal clearance between the upper and lower surfaces of the tray will be maintained by the upper and lower surfaces being pressed together against raised dimples or ridges pressed into the lower surface during manufacture.
- a spacing assembly, mesh or the like may be used and "sandwiched" between the upper and lower plates.
- the upper and lower surfaces of the heat exchanger may be secured permanently, e.g. by welding using a rolled seam or by a method that permits them being disassembled, e.g. by using bolts, screws, clips or clamps.
- cleaning requires no special tools, brushes, dismantling or any activity other than the a routine wipe or clean of the shower closure.
- cleaning apparatus such as moving brushes, rods or plungers as is required in US Patent 4300247.
- the heat exchange surface which would feel cold during normal operation, is preferably covered by a floor plate (or possibly specially designed mat which will be termed the 'Insulating Floor Plate') made of low conductivity material.
- This lifts the user off the cold surface and allows the shower waste to drain freely below.
- This Insulating Floor Plate will be lightweight and may be readily manually lifted from the shower enclosure or arranged so that it is hinged and normally resides in the vertical position exposing the shower tray. Alternatively, this cover may reside in the horizontal position, although raised slightly above its seated operating position by a spring mechanism. The weight of the shower occupant will then push the cover into its operating position. This then allows for natural evaporative drying of the shower catch tray.
- the hinged lifting may be assisted by pretension springs and a damper arrangement within the hinges. In a further enhancement, this may be automatic so that the hinged cover is secured by a magnetic catch or similar mechanism which is released a short period after the shower has been concluded. All of these options allow the Insulating Floor Plate to be lifted by springs in the hinge or similar mechanism allowing the shower tray to be cleaned if necessary and to dry by evaporation in the normal way. It is also possible to trigger the movement of the Insulating Floor Plate from the operation of the shower cubicle door either electronically or by mechanical interlock. These arrangements prevent any smell or mould build-up in the long-term and encourages occasional cleaning of the shower tray/ heat exchange surface.
- the thin (typically 1.2 mm or less thick) sheet heat exchanger is protected by an inlet pressure control system.
- a pump designed to operate with a low suction head (between 0.5 and 3 bar absolute). This pump supplies the preheated water through a continuous flow, electrical water heater and on to the shower nozzle at the desired pressure. Inclusion of the pump is also intended to provide optimum control of the shower water flow rate with 'boost * (high pressure) and 'econo' (low pressure) water and energy saving options.
- This arrangement can only work at its optimum when supported by an electronic control system that monitors water temperature and not only controls the power supply to the heating elements but also the pump speed. Having control of the pump speed and hence the shower pressure and flow also has advantages in the control of the shower particularly on start up bringing the shower up to the desired temperature as quickly as possible.
- An electronic control system is capable of giving the shower a number of additional desirable features, as follows:-
- the digital control system will be measuring the temperature rise and will also be able to monitor the power being used by the heating system from which it will be possible to accurately assess the water flow rate. This data could be used to display a range of useful information such as:-
- the digital control system may also allow the option of "Parental control" with the maximum shower time, quantity of water, energy used, water temperature etc to be set and pass locked into the shower control. This could be useful at sports clubs etc.
- the materials used to produce the heat exchanger are not limited to stainless steel.
- the upper surface of the heat exchanger/tray may be of an alternate metal, material or composite that enhances the rate of heat transfer.
- the pressure at the point of supply to the shower enclosure may be as low as 0.2 bar gauge without disrupting the normal operation of the shower.
- This, coupled with a modest electrical power supply, is intended to provide a product that can be used in almost any situation without any adjustment or highly skilled installation staff being required.
- This shower will also be unaffected during its operation by any water pressure variations which often cause problems with conventional showers.
- the shower of US Patent 4300247 does not have these advantages
- This shower in this invention does not require the user to have any specific training or carry out any non-standard activities, e.g. setting valves to a particular position or draining a heat exchanger at the conclusion of the shower.
- the shower of US Patent 4300247 does require the user to operate values to control the movement of drain water in the heat exchanger.
- the shower can, when required by plumbing regulations, also be connected to the water supply via a back flow preventer.
- a small break tank which may be an integral part of the shower enclosure, can be used. This would effectively control the shower inlet pressure at a constant low pressure and negate the requirements for the inlet pressure control.
- this is an alternative solution to the provision of pressure reducing/control valve assembly and thus may be installed as an integral part of the shower.
- An inlet water filter may be desirable to prevent particulate etc entering the shower.
- a further refinement could also be the inclusion of a pressure relief valve to prevent any damage to the shower in the event of the inlet pressure control system failing.
- the shower of the present invention will perform at its highest efficiency when used with an enclosed shower cubicle that has a full door and is enclosed, or partially enclosed, at the top.
- This invention has the following advantages over a conventional electric shower: - a) High water flow conventional electric showers, may use as much as 11kw. An electrical supply of this size requires
- the shower tray of the present invention is intended for manufacture on a substantial scale.
- Each of the components described here are identified as discreet items to clarify their function. It is likely that, prior to manufacture, some of these components, particularly the isolating valve, pressure control system, pump and water heating cartridge will share some of the same housing and, once assembled, will become a smaller number of items.
- the present invention thus provides a high efficiency electric shower that has a heat recovery and water supply system that is an integral part of a shower base and enclosure. This provides a viable
- Fig. 1 shows an energy-saving high flow shower with a low pressure thin sheet circular tray
- Fig. 2 is a schematic drawing showing typical connections and water flow
- Fig. 3 shows a typical detail for a low pressure thin sheet circular tray
- Fig. 4 shows a heat exchanger tray cover for a circular tray
- Fig. 5 shows an example of a control interface.
- Fig. 1 shows the general arrangement of a typical shower enclosure according to the present invention.
- the edge of the shower catch tray 1.1 is seen below the Insulating Floor Plate 1.3
- 1.2 shows the location of other key components (control system, pump, heater, pressure reducing valve etc) beneath the base unit.
- the control module is shown at 1.4 and the electrical supply point at 1.5
- 1.6 shows a square tray in which the drain outlet may be central or to one side.
- the top of the shower cubicle is ideally enclosed.
- Fig.2 is a schematic layout of the principal components of the shower of the present invention.
- the cold supply water enters through the electrically actuated isolating valve 2.1 and then directly through the pressure regulating valve 2.2.
- This valve is necessary to prevent over-pressurisation of the purposefully designed low pressure thin (typically 1.2mm or less thick) tray heat exchanger 2.3.
- the pressure of the water is now too low for a satisfactory shower and some means is also required to regulate the flow of water to the shower head. This is achieved using the pump shown at 2.4. Any additional heat needed to bring the water up to the desired operating temperature is added by the conventional shower heater 2.5.
- the water now flows to the shower head 2.6.
- the warm shower water After being used for bathing, the warm shower water passes over, or is guided over, the surface of the heat exchanger 2.3.
- the temperature of the water and the quantity flowing from the shower head is regulated according to the parameters entered into the display 2.7
- This display unit has a low voltage connection and communicates with the control unit 2.8 that modulates the power to the heater (controls water temp), sets the pump speed (water flow), and provides data to the display unit 2.7. It also switches on the water flow by activating valve 2.1.
- the temperature signals necessary for the control system 2.8 to function are provided by a number of sensors shown at 2.9.
- Fig. 3 illustrates the function and construction of the low pressure thin sheet heat exchange module using a circular tray configuration with a central waste outlet.
- the tray/heat exchange module is shown in a cross-section taken on a radial axis 3.1
- the cold water flows in at the port 3.2 entering the space bounded by the two thin stainless steel plates.
- the first part of this space forms an annular inlet manifold before it passes through the narrow space between the upper and lower plates to the annular discharge manifold and out of the exit port at 3.3.
- This is achieved by a tapered gallery which reduces the clearance between the plates as the radial distance increases.
- a spacing assembly, mesh or the like may be used and "sandwiched" between the upper and lower plates.
- the upper and lower shells have a complex concave shape giving the shells increased mechanical strength. They are joined in an interference fit so that when joined together and secured at their edges they are sprung so that they are in compression at the points of contact or points of contact of any spacing element.
- the edge of the tray is shown bending up behind the vertical surface of a shower enclosure 3.5.
- the exposed heat exchange surface which drains freely due to gravity, so that the used shower water drains away as the shower is in progress and leaves the exposed heat exchange surface free of drain water at the end of the shower.
- the exposed heat exchange surface is smooth, of high cosmetic appeal and has a surface finish that can be cleaned.
- the waste water flows to the drain at 3.6.
- the tray is made of two layers, typically of stainless steel it is still preferable to insulate and necessary to support the tray from below. This is illustrated at 3. 7.
- the shower Insulating Floor Plate is not shown in Fig. 3.
- Fig. 4 illustrates the function and construction of the shower Insulating Floor Plate using a circular version as an example.
- the main body of the Insulating Floor Plate would normally be made of a low thermally conductive typically a plastic or composite material so that it does not feel cold to stand on and is shown in 4.1.
- the top surface would be non slip and slightly convex to provide strength and free draining.
- the edge of the Insulating Floor Plate in this example distributes the flow of warm waste water over the surface of the heat exchange plate.
- the details of this feature can be seen in the enlargement in 4.3. This shows the castellation or notches on the lower edge of the circular rib.
- the detail enlargement in 4.4 depicts the small annular space around the edge of the Insulated Floor Plate that acts as a manifold for the waste water.
- a similar effect of raised ridges may extend across the entire lower surface of the cover as a series of baffles or channels to guide the waste water.
- a hinge may be fitted to the tray. This feature is illustrated in 4.5 and would effectively secure the tray to the shower base or enclosure. A securing catch to hold the cover down and/or pretension springs to lift or partially lift the tray when the shower is not in use could be provided.
- Fig.5 shows an example of the shower control interface 5.1. Some of the control features are common to any conventional shower. These include the on/off control to start the water flow and a means to adjust the water temperature 5.2. In this example two flow options are given by the buttons 5.3.
- control system It is a prerequisite of the present invention control system that it provides a control and monitoring system to regulate both the heating and pumping activities.
- the data which the control system generates necessarily to perform this function in turn provides the option to include a number of desirable features.
- This monitoring data already available it is possible to infer the quantity of water being used. This information is displayed in this example at 5.4 and the energy both used and recycled displayed at 5.5. It is, in the same way, possible to ascertain when there is insufficient supply of water and this is used to provide a warning shown at 5.6.
- the electrical connection between the display unit and the control unit for both low voltage power supply and data transfer connect at the rear of the display unit and is shown at 5.7.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Epidemiology (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Bathtubs, Showers, And Their Attachments (AREA)
- Electrical Discharge Machining, Electrochemical Machining, And Combined Machining (AREA)
- Hybrid Cells (AREA)
- Residential Or Office Buildings (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Claims
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
PL12731606T PL2718631T3 (en) | 2011-05-24 | 2012-05-24 | An electric shower |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB1108705.3A GB2494609B (en) | 2011-05-24 | 2011-05-24 | An electric shower |
PCT/GB2012/000458 WO2012160330A2 (en) | 2011-05-24 | 2012-05-24 | An electric shower |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2718631A2 true EP2718631A2 (en) | 2014-04-16 |
EP2718631B1 EP2718631B1 (en) | 2020-08-05 |
Family
ID=44279528
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP12731606.5A Active EP2718631B1 (en) | 2011-05-24 | 2012-05-24 | An electric shower |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2718631B1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2837154C (en) |
GB (1) | GB2494609B (en) |
PL (1) | PL2718631T3 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2012160330A2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2024035266A1 (en) * | 2022-08-09 | 2024-02-15 | Cmpny One Sp. Z O. O. | Mobile shower |
Families Citing this family (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR3010503B1 (en) * | 2013-09-11 | 2016-09-16 | Atlantic Industrie Sas | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DETECTING A STATE OF COLMATATION OF A DEVICE FOR RECOVERING HEAT ON GRAY WATER |
FR3021098B1 (en) | 2014-05-15 | 2016-06-03 | Quantia | HOT WATER DISPENSING DEVICE |
FR3042516B1 (en) | 2015-10-20 | 2019-06-28 | Christian Lozano | DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING THE WATER CONSUMPTION OF A WATER DISPENSER |
EP3376120A1 (en) | 2017-03-14 | 2018-09-19 | Nederlandse Organisatie voor toegepast- natuurwetenschappelijk onderzoek TNO | Shower system |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4300247A (en) * | 1980-05-07 | 1981-11-17 | Berg Charles A | Energy conservation in shower bathing |
GB2416829B (en) * | 2004-07-29 | 2009-04-08 | A K Ind Ltd | Heat exchanger assembly and appliance including heat exchanger |
CH700393A1 (en) * | 2009-02-06 | 2010-08-13 | Creaholic Sa | Heat exchanger. |
US8104532B2 (en) * | 2010-03-29 | 2012-01-31 | Jeremiah Cardone | Shower heat exchanger with clog-removable drain |
CN101822502A (en) * | 2010-04-13 | 2010-09-08 | 舒定涛 | Energy-saving low-carbon health safety instantaneous shower |
CN201850788U (en) * | 2010-11-16 | 2011-06-01 | 舒定涛 | Energy-saving safe heath bathroom |
-
2011
- 2011-05-24 GB GB1108705.3A patent/GB2494609B/en active Active
-
2012
- 2012-05-24 EP EP12731606.5A patent/EP2718631B1/en active Active
- 2012-05-24 WO PCT/GB2012/000458 patent/WO2012160330A2/en active Application Filing
- 2012-05-24 PL PL12731606T patent/PL2718631T3/en unknown
- 2012-05-24 CA CA2837154A patent/CA2837154C/en active Active
Non-Patent Citations (1)
Title |
---|
See references of WO2012160330A2 * |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2024035266A1 (en) * | 2022-08-09 | 2024-02-15 | Cmpny One Sp. Z O. O. | Mobile shower |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2837154A1 (en) | 2012-11-29 |
PL2718631T3 (en) | 2021-02-08 |
GB2494609B (en) | 2014-08-13 |
EP2718631B1 (en) | 2020-08-05 |
CA2837154C (en) | 2019-09-03 |
GB201108705D0 (en) | 2011-07-06 |
GB2494609A (en) | 2013-03-20 |
WO2012160330A2 (en) | 2012-11-29 |
WO2012160330A3 (en) | 2013-08-22 |
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